Vanterpool: BVI Worse Off Under VIP
PLM leader Mark Vanterpool says the British Virgin Islands is worse off after nearly eight years of Virgin Islands Party governance, questioning progress despite a record $550 million budget. Vanterpool criticised delays on roads, schools, water and airport expansion and warned many projects only receive attention as elections approach.
Mark Vanterpool, leader of the People’s Leadership Movement (PLM) and former Fourth District representative and Communications and Works minister, delivered a scathing response to Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley’s 2026 State of the Territory Address, saying the British Virgin Islands is "worse off" after almost eight years of Virgin Islands Party (VIP) rule.
Speaking late on Friday, Vanterpool challenged whether residents have benefited from the territory’s record $550 million budget and a string of announced development programmes. He urged voters to assess tangible outcomes in areas that affect everyday life: roads, schools, healthcare, the cost of living, youth opportunities and critical infrastructure such as water, sewerage and airport expansion. "Have we solved the challenges surrounding water, sewerage, airport expansion, transportation, and other critical infrastructure?
The honest answer is no," Vanterpool said. He argued that, despite the BVI’s "extraordinary people, extraordinary resources, and extraordinary potential," leadership had repeatedly missed opportunities because major initiatives were not advanced quickly enough. Vanterpool accused the government of allowing projects to stall and decisions to be postponed, eroding investor confidence and public trust.
He pointed to long-standing complaints raised by residents and opposition politicians over the pace of road repairs, unresolved water distribution problems, delayed airport plans and unfinished public works. "For nearly eight years, the people have heard announcements about roads, schools, airport expansion, ferry terminals, economic development, housing initiatives, and public infrastructure," he said. "Yet too many projects remain unfinished, delayed, or only now receiving urgent attention as another election approaches." Vanterpool insisted that leadership should deliver results consistently, not only in the run-up to polls.
Addressing social and economic concerns, he said he had listened to business owners struggling with rising costs, parents worried about their children’s future, pensioners and public officers anxious about their circumstances, and young people seeking opportunities. "The people deserve better," he said.
Vanterpool’s remarks come as political debate intensifies ahead of expected general elections next year. His critique underscores growing scrutiny of capital projects and public services among residents who want clearer timelines, accountability and faster delivery on key infrastructure and social programmes.
Primary source: BVI News